KATHUA: In a cultural double showcase reflecting both patriotic sentiment and folk vibrancy, the Sub Office of the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) organized two significant events in Kathua district - a Mushaira themed on "Operation Sindoor" at the District Library and a cultural programme at the historic Shinj Mela, Ramkote, in collaboration with Peer Baba Mela and Dangal Committee, Chugaan.

The Mushaira held at the District Library Kathua paid tributes to the valour of India's armed forces and celebrated the spirit of patriotism through poetry. The event was graced by Member Legislative Assembly Kathua, Bharat Bhushan, as the Chief Guest, who appreciated the Academy's efforts in connecting national emotion with literary expression.

In his address, the Chief Guest praised the Academy for promoting regional languages and honouring national sentiment through cultural expression. He urged the youth to take inspiration from such platforms and participate actively in preserving cultural identity.

The programme began with two minutes of silence in memory of Late Poet Madan Lal Toofan, a respected literary figure and scheduled participant, whose sudden demise led to the rescheduling of the event. His contribution to literature was remembered by all present.

Nine poets presented their compositions in tune with the patriotic theme. The participants included Poet Dr. Guru Parshad, Poetess Saroj Bala, Awardee Vijay Sharma, Poet Shyam Lal Khajuria, Poet Khajoor Singh, Poet Kuldeep Kippi, Dr. Lekh Raj, Poetess Deepa Sharma, and Poet T.R. Sumberia. The Mushaira was anchored by Awardee Vijay Sharma, whose narration added depth to the occasion.

Meanwhile, in Ramkote, the Shinj Mela became a vibrant display of Dogra folk culture, with traditional performances turning the fairground into a celebration of heritage. Member Legislative Assembly Billawar, Satish Kumar Sharma, attended as Chief Guest and praised the initiative, calling it a valuable effort to preserve and promote the region's cultural identity.

The MLA commended the artists for their exceptional performances and remarked that, "Events like these are vital in keeping our roots alive and introducing our younger generation to the richness of Dogra culture."

Five cultural parties performed during the programme, representing different facets of Jammu's folk traditions. The performances included Geetru by Shatoo Ram and Party, Dogri Lok Geet by Kasturi Lal and Party, Dogri folk dances by Sonia Sharma and Party, Punjabi-Sufi singing by Neeta Adarsh and Party, and Kaarkaan - a dramatic and satirical folk form - by Ajeet Pal and Party.

The proceedings were anchored by Cultural Host Pawan Verma, and the event concluded with a vote of thanks by Special Officer for Cultural Activities, Sanjeev Gupta. He expressed gratitude to the guests, artists, and audience, and reaffirmed the Academy's dedication to promoting art and culture at the grassroots level.